David Ross

By Gary Dzen/Boston.com Staff

What to expect: Ross, who spent the last four seasons with the Braves, is considered one of the game’s best backup catchers. He had nine home runs in 196 plate appearances last season, batting .256. His ability to call a game should be a good influence on Boston’s pitching. Ross is not a game-changing bat, and the Sox now have a glut of catchers. Until they trade Jarrod Saltalamacchia or Ryan Lavarnway, Ross could be redundant

Who he replaces: Kelly Shoppach, who took his backup catching act to the Mets. Shoppach hit .250 in 140 plate appearances for the Red Sox, striking out 62 times with 11 walks. Ross could also be replacing Lavarnway, who struggled after being called up late in the season.